Summary

Allows a defined group of veterans to enroll in TRICARE Select during the annual open enrollment period. It sets who qualifies as a “covered veteran beneficiary,” opens a new path to DoD-administered health coverage, and requires a phased rollout starting one year after enactment. While enrolled in TRICARE Select under this option, these veterans cannot be concurrently enrolled as VA patients or receive VA-provided care. VA and DoD must sign an agreement to handle reimbursement and coordination. The bill directs outreach, implementation steps, and ongoing reports to track progress and costs.

Key Points

• Creates a new TRICARE Select eligibility path for defined “covered veteran beneficiaries.”
• Enrollment is limited to TRICARE’s annual open season.
• Veterans who use this option cannot at the same time be enrolled as VA patients or receive VA-provided care.
• VA and DoD must execute an MOU to handle reimbursement and day-to-day coordination.
• Effective one year after enactment, with phased enrollment to manage rollout.
• Requires outreach and education so eligible veterans understand choices and timelines.
• Mandates periodic implementation updates and annual reports on costs and enrollment.
• Clarifies eligibility by defining “covered veteran beneficiaries” in law.

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